19-05-2025
Seahawks speak on state tournament expectations
FORT MYERS, Fla. (WMBB) – In preparation for their Class 3A state semifinal matchup, the South Walton Seahawks held a light practice Sunday, on a replica field of Hammond Stadium — the site of the state tournament.
The practice field was selected for its close resemblance to the dimensions and playing surface of Hammond Stadium. South Walton's home field features turf, while the tournament will be played on a traditional grass and dirt infield.
During practice, players spoke about the team's expectations in Fort Myers and the variables they anticipate facing in the semifinal.
'The field is very similar to what we'll play on tomorrow morning,' head coach Nick Borthwick said. 'We wanted to get out and take ground balls on a surface that matches what we'll face.'
While the infield is manageable, the outfield — and weather conditions — are expected to be more challenging.
'It's definitely hot,' senior outfielder Cameron Tipton-Thomas said. 'You have to hydrate if you even want to survive it. Everything's bigger out here. Our home field is 295 feet to center; this one's 330. But I've played on big fields my whole life, so I'm prepared.'
Despite the changes in scale and conditions, players remain focused on execution and composure heading into the matchup.
'The preparation stays the same,' senior pitcher Braxton Varnes said. 'But it's that extra 10 percent of concentration — that little edge — that can finish the job.'
South Walton is no stranger to this stage. The Seahawks finished second in the state last year, completing a historic postseason run. But this time around, the senior class says nothing short of a championship will be satisfying.
'Senior night was emotional,' senior shortstop Frank Wells said. 'Our coaches told us to leave a legacy. Most of us have been here three or four years. We've been through the ups and downs, and we've flipped the script. South Walton used to be seen as just a baseball school — now we're a powerhouse.'
Junior Denton Lord will take the mound as the starting pitcher for the semifinal. He said he's excited and ready for the biggest game of the season.
'I feel really good,' Lord said. 'This is a great group, and we've had a great year. I'm ready to keep it rolling. This is the biggest game of the year, and I'm proud to be the one taking the mound.'
Lord also credited the community's support for boosting the team's confidence.
'Seeing our whole town send us off like that — it meant a lot,' he said. 'Win or lose, we know we have people behind us.'
South Walton will take the field Wednesday at 10 a.m. at Hammond Stadium in Fort Myers, aiming for a return to the state championship game.
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